Best Rheumatologists in Riverside

Choosing a Rheumatologist in Riverside

Introduction to Rheumatology

Rheumatology is a specialized branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating diseases of the joints, muscles, and bones.

Rheumatologists manage conditions such as arthritis, lupus, gout, and other autoimmune disorders that affect the musculoskeletal system.

Importance of Selecting the Right Rheumatologist

Choosing an experienced and compatible rheumatologist is essential for effective long-term care and improved quality of life.

A skilled rheumatologist can provide personalized treatment plans, manage complex medications, and offer ongoing support for chronic conditions.

Overview of Rheumatology Services in Riverside

Riverside offers a range of rheumatology services, with several qualified specialists practicing in the area.

Notable healthcare institutions such as Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center and Riverside Community Hospital provide comprehensive rheumatology care.

Choosing a Rheumatologist in Riverside

Understanding Rheumatology

Definition and scope of rheumatology

• Explanation of rheumatology as a medical specialty
• Common conditions treated by rheumatologists

Importance of specialized care for rheumatic diseases

• Benefits of seeing a rheumatologist
• Impact on quality of life and disease management

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Rheumatologist

Qualifications and Certifications

• Board certifications (e.g., American Board of Internal Medicine)
• Educational background and training

Experience and Expertise

• Years of practice
• Specializations within rheumatology

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Star ratings and number of reviews
• Importance of considering multiple sources

Hospital Affiliations

• Accessibility of associated medical facilities
• Quality of affiliated hospitals

Language and Communication

• Availability of multilingual doctors
• Importance of clear communication in treatment

Overview of Rheumatologist Selection Process in Riverside

Researching Available Rheumatologists

• Using online resources like Healthgrades
• Consulting with primary care physicians for referrals

Evaluating Rheumatologists Based on Personal Needs

• Considering location and accessibility
• Assessing compatibility with personal preferences

Scheduling Initial Consultations

• Importance of meeting potential rheumatologists
• Questions to ask during the first appointment

Top-Rated Rheumatologists in Riverside

Dr. Naveen Raja

Overview

• 5-star rating with 3 reviews
• Specializes in Rheumatology and Internal Medicine
• Board-certified in Preventive Medicine and Internal Medicine

Education and Experience

• Graduated from Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine in 1990
• Affiliated with Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center

Contact Information

• Phone: (310) 825-2448
• Languages: English, Spanish

Dr. Joanne Kang

Overview

• 5-star rating with 3 reviews
• Specializes in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology
• Board-certified in Internal Medicine

Education and Experience

• Graduated from NEW YORK Medical College in 1997
• Completed residency at Harvard/Cambridge Hospital in 2000
• Affiliated with Kaiser Permanente Moreno Valley and Riverside Medical Centers

Contact Information

• Phone: (951) 353-2000
• Language: English

Dr. Andre Babajanians

Overview

• 3.7-star rating with 14 reviews
• Specializes in Rheumatology
• Board-certified in Internal Medicine

Education and Experience

• Completed fellowship at Metrohealth Medical Center
• Completed residency at Harlem Hospital
• Affiliated with Riverside Community Hospital

Contact Information

• Phone: Not available
• Languages: English, French, Persian

Additional Resources for Finding Rheumatologists in Riverside

Professional Organizations and Directories

American College of Rheumatology (ACR)

• Official website with physician finder tool
• Information on rheumatic diseases and treatments

California Rheumatology Alliance (CRA)

• State-specific resources for patients
• List of member rheumatologists in California

Online Review Platforms and Healthcare Provider Databases

Healthgrades

• Comprehensive profiles of rheumatologists
• Patient reviews and ratings
• Information on education, certifications, and hospital affiliations

Yelp and Google Reviews

• Additional patient feedback and experiences
• Photos of medical facilities

Local Healthcare Networks

Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center

• Directory of affiliated rheumatologists
• Information on integrated care approach

Riverside Community Hospital

• List of rheumatologists with hospital privileges
• Contact information for specialist referrals

Recommendations from Primary Care Physicians

Consult with your primary care doctor

• Personalized referrals based on your medical history
• Insights on local specialists' expertise